Elder-Beerman history: A journey from simple downtown dry goods store

The Elder and Johnston Co. was located in the Reibold Building for more than six decades. DAYTON METRO LIBRARY LUTZENBERGER COLLECTION

The Elder and Johnston Co. was located in the Reibold Building for more than six decades. DAYTON METRO LIBRARY LUTZENBERGER COLLECTION ... read more

An advertisement in the Dayton Daily Journal in 1883 heralded the opening of the new Boston Dry Goods Store.

In the late 1880s, two dozen of such establishments - filled with textiles, ready to wear clothing and groceries - filled downtown store fronts. Dayton’s growing population ensured there was room for one more.

The store was opened by Thomas Elder, William Hunter, Jr. and Russell Johnston on East Third Street. That early ad stated the store’s aim was “to present to the public good, dependable merchandise at sensible prices.”

In 1896, the store moved to Dayton’s newest skyscraper, the Reibold Building, at the corner of Fourth and Main streets. The company became the Elder & Johnston Co. and remained there for more than six decades.